Ashk River

The Ashk River (Ashk-Rud), also known locally as "Chehel Cheshmeh" (Forty Springs), is one of the most beautiful and scenic rivers in Mazandaran Province. It flows through the Dodangeh district of Sari, in the dense forests on the slopes of Mount Googli, near the village of Paji. The river rises from numerous springs and winds its way through rich vegetation and unspoiled natural scenery. Although its water volume has declined in recent years, the Ashk River remains one of the most eye-catching natural attractions of the area, and it is also home to a rare, endangered fish, the red-spotted trout.

Walking along the river, visiting the springs, small waterfalls and old water mills, which are now ruined but still hint at a past way of life, makes for a memorable experience for nature lovers. The two villages of Paji and Miana, which lie next to the Ashk River, are appealing tourist destinations with their local culture and striking surroundings. Interestingly, some visitors mistakenly know these two villages by the combined name "Pajimiana", while each has its own separate identity and layout. Other attractions around the river include the Oben Waterfall, the Soleyman Tangeh Dam, the Shirin-Rud, the village of Parkuh with its views over the clouds, natural caves such as the Aroos va Damad (Bride and Groom) Cave, and the many imamzadeh shrines of the Dodangeh region.

To reach the Ashk River, the route usually leads from the city of Sari towards the Dodangeh district. One common route runs from Sari to the Soleyman Tangeh Dam, continues to the village of Afrachal, and then on to Paji Miana. The road is mountainous and can become problematic in seasons of heavy rain or snowmelt. The best time to visit is late spring to summer, when the river carries more water, the weather is mild, the vegetation is lush and the landscape is at its most spectacular. For responsible nature travel, we recommend that you take your rubbish with you, avoid lighting fires in sensitive forest areas, and respect the established trails to minimize damage to the area's vegetation and soil.